Thinking about traveling to France? If you’re looking for a non-touristy destination that still has plenty to offer the intrepid traveler, then yes, France is the perfect place for you. In fact, there are so many places in France that cater to the modern adventurer. From outdoor activities such as hiking and caving to indoor thrills like go-karting and escape rooms, this country offers a little bit of everything. The best part is that most of these locations don’t require you to book months in advance or pay an arm and a leg to get there. Read on for more information about the best places to travel in France if you want an adventurous vacation.
Paris
France’s capital is the perfect place for travelers who want to experience the high-octane “Parisian” lifestyle. It’s one of the most romantic cities in the world and has plenty of cultural sites to keep history buffs happy. If you’re visiting Paris in the spring or summer, you can also enjoy outdoor activities such as cycling and walking along the Seine River. And if you’re traveling during autumn or winter, you can experience the city’s enchanting Christmas markets. Paris also has a variety of museums, including the famous Louvre, so there’s something to suit every interest. Paris is also the perfect place to indulge in fine French cuisine. You can also visit the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, and Notre Dame Cathedral, among other landmarks. It’s important to note, however, that Paris is a very expensive city to visit.
French Riviera
The French Riviera is often regarded as the place to go for a luxurious beach getaway. Although it’s certainly possible to visit this region for a few days and do little more than relax on the sand, the French Riviera has plenty to offer adventurers. Nice, for example, has a spectacular coastline and a charming old town with lots of cool bars and restaurants. You can hike, swim, scuba dive, and rock climb in the nearby mountains and canyons, too. If you visit the region in the winter, you can also experience the famous Carnival, a five-day annual festival. While you’re in the area, you can also visit Monaco, a tiny principality that’s known for its glitzy casinos and high-end shopping. If you’re looking for a more low-key vacation, however, the French Riviera has plenty to offer, too. Simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the beach life while sipping a cocktail in one of the many nearby bars.
Nice and Monaco
These neighboring cities are located on the French Riviera and are the perfect place to go for those who are interested in history and culture. Nice is especially famous for hosting an annual Carnival, and you can enjoy the festivities any time of year. Monaco, on the other hand, is a tiny country with a rich cultural heritage. Visit the Oceanographic Museum to learn about the sea or the Musée Océanographique to learn about Nice’s history. While you’re in the area, you can also visit the nearby towns of Eze and Villefranche, which boast spectacular views. Nice and Monaco are also ideal for lovers of the outdoors. Visit the nearby Gorges du Loup or the Mercantour National Park, home to the highest mountain in the south of France. Or you can explore the city of Nice itself, which has plenty of parks and gardens.
Mont Saint-Michel
This is an abbey on a rocky isle in the middle of the sea. It’s the perfect place for anyone who wants to experience an adventure that sounds like it came straight out of a fantasy novel. This place has a rich history and is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visiting Mont Saint-Michel is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s a great place to go if you love photography or if you’re interested in architecture. Don’t forget to visit the nearby Musée des Beaux-Arts and Musée des Jacobins d’Etat, too.
Strasbourg
Cross the border from France and you’ll find Strasbourg, a city that’s largely unknown to tourists. It’s a relatively quiet place with a charming old town and a spectacular cathedral. Visit the Maison de l’Outil et de l’Espace d’Art to immerse yourself in the city’s artistic history. Then, to get a taste of the local cuisine, head to Le Bistrot. This French bistro is a great place to try traditional dishes such as choucroute and saucisson. Strasbourg is also a great place to go for Culture Month in July, a festival that celebrates art, music, and dance. You can also go for the New Year’s Eve fireworks display, which has become a local tradition.
Bordeaux and the Wine Country
Bordeaux is the perfect place to go if you love wine. You can book wine tours or simply explore the city’s vineyards while sipping delicious French wine. Visit the nearby wineries of Pomerol and Saint-Émilion, too. You can also go on a vineyard hike, which will allow you to see the beautiful countryside. If you’re visiting Bordeaux in the spring or summer, you can also enjoy outdoor activities such as sailing, kayaking, and canoeing on the nearby rivers. If you visit in the winter, you can enjoy the beautiful architecture of the city’s churches and buildings.
Conclusion
France is a non-touristy destination that offers a little bit of everything for the modern adventurer. This country has everything from exciting urban adventures like rock climbing in Paris to outdoor activities like hiking in Mont Saint-Michel. With so many places to visit, it pays to explore this country a little bit before you book your trip.
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